13/09/2017
You've seen the pictures but there are no words.
If you've sailed with me in this paradisiacal corner of the world, spent a vacation on these islands, or have friends / family that call the Leeward's and VI's home, then you have the same pit in your stomach.
A new reality has emerged - beyond description or comprehension: the US and British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, and Barbuda (and more) have been completely decimated.
If you have the means, please fly to San Juan, charter a private boat, fill it with supplies and bring it to St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, Jost Van D**e, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. Please preference Jost and Anegada as current information suggests there are tight-knits of survivors running dry on supplies and water, and they're getting nearly zero boat / humanitarian support.
If you don't have the means, I recommend the two donation avenues below: Richard Branson and Kenny Chesney helped put this amazing collection of islands on the map, and they're already days into mobilizing functional resources to preserve life and assist the amazing locals that make the BVI/USVI the treasure it is (they now lack any livelihood in Irma's wake).
These gentlemen have the means and desire to make a real impact - and while there are many campaigns aimed at supporting the Caribbean devastation, I'd encourage you to be diligent in your selection. Anything helps if it's in the right hands.
Branson: https://www.virgin.com/richard-branson/recovering-hurricane-irma
Chesney: https://kennychesney.com/news/448917/hurricaneirmamessage
The amazing people that earn their livelihoods and raise their families in these amazing places - West Indians and ex-pats alike - have been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember. Almost 90% support a tourism-based economy that peaks in the winter months. They need us.
The Leewards and VIs will rebuild, stronger than ever, but we have to help.
Love,
AU
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